Apparatus for conduit squeeze retainer

ABSTRACT

A retainer for a tubular body and a pipe in a pipe assembly can include a split ring having an axis, an outer diameter, a bore that is axial having an inner diameter, and first and second axial ends. The split ring can have a relaxed, default state wherein, relative to the axis, a default radius R1 of the split ring is less than an expanded radius R2 of the split ring when it is expanded in an actuated state. The radial size of the split ring can be configured to radially expand relative to the axis without manual intervention when the pipe is axially inserted through the split ring in the tubular body, such that the chamfer on the split ring is configured to translate axial motion of the pipe through the split ring into a radial motion of the split ring.

This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Prov. App.No. 62/453,901, filed Feb. 2, 2017, and U.S. Prov. App. No. 62/459,040,filed Feb. 14, 2017, and U.S. Prov. App. No. 62/560,045, filed Sep. 18,2017, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Disclosure

The present invention relates in general to pipes and, in particular, toa system, method and apparatus for a conduit squeeze retainer.

Description of the Prior Art

Conventional spline-type, restrained pipe joint systems typically havesplines that are separate from the pipes. The splines can be lost duringtransportation or disassembly. Examples of such designs include U.S.Pat. No. 5,662,360, U.S. Pat. No. 7,284,310, and U.S. Pat. No.7,537,248. There are no “push to lock” type pipe joints that rely on aspline that automatically “expands” to open, and then snaps into place.Some users would prefer a quicker installation of restrained joint pipethat does not require “reversibility” (i.e., the ability to take thejoint apart after assembly), and yet still provide a robust pipe jointsystem. Thus, improvements in pipe restrained joints continue to be ofinterest.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of a system, method, assembly and apparatus for a conduitsqueeze retainer are disclosed. For example, a retainer for a tubularbody and a pipe in a pipe assembly can include a split ring having anaxis, an outer diameter, a bore that is axial having an inner diameter,and first and second axial ends. A chamfer can be formed on one of thefirst and second axial ends adjacent the inner diameter. The split ringalso can include circumferentially overlapping ends that are axiallyspaced apart from each in an axial direction. In addition, the splitring can include radial extensions relative to the axis. The radiallyextensions can be configured to be manipulated to change a radial sizeof the split ring. The radial extensions also can be configured to onlyslidingly engage each other and do not lock together. The split ring canhave a relaxed, default state wherein, relative to the axis, a defaultradius R1 of the split ring is less than an expanded radius R2 of thesplit ring when it is expanded in an actuated state. Moreover, the splitring can be configured to be mounted in the tubular body to secure thepipe in the tubular body to form the pipe assembly. The radial size ofthe split ring can be configured to radially expand relative to the axiswithout manual intervention when the pipe is axially inserted throughthe split ring in the tubular body, such that the chamfer on the splitring is configured to translate axial motion of the pipe through thesplit ring into a radial motion of the split ring.

The foregoing and other objects and advantages of these embodiments willbe apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of thefollowing detailed description, taken in conjunction with the appendedclaims and the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

So that the manner in which the features and advantages of theembodiments are attained and can be understood in more detail, a moreparticular description may be had by reference to the embodimentsthereof that are illustrated in the appended drawings. However, thedrawings illustrate only some embodiments and therefore are not to beconsidered limiting in scope as there may be other equally effectiveembodiments.

FIG. 1 is a top, half-sectional side view of an embodiment of anassembly with a retainer in an unlocked position.

FIG. 2 is a top view of an embodiment of the assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a top, half-sectional side view of the embodiment of FIG. 1with the retainer in a locked position.

FIG. 4 is a top view of an embodiment of the assembly of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a retainer.

FIG. 6 is a bottom, half-sectional side view of an embodiment of a pipesystem at an initial stage of contact between a pipe and a retainer in acoupling.

FIG. 7 is a bottom, half-sectional side view of the embodiment of thepipe system of FIG. 6 at an intermediate stage of contact between thepipe, retainer and coupling.

FIG. 8 is a partial, top isometric view of the pipe system of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is a bottom, half-sectional side view of the embodiment of thepipe system of FIG. 6 at an advanced stage of contact between the pipe,retainer and coupling.

FIG. 10 is a partial, top isometric view of the pipe system of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a bottom, half-sectional side view of the embodiment of thepipe system of FIG. 6 at a final stage of contact between the pipe,retainer and coupling.

FIG. 12 is a partial, top isometric view of the pipe system of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is bottom, half-sectional side view of another embodiment of apipe system.

FIG. 14 is bottom, half-sectional side view of still another embodimentof a pipe system.

FIG. 15 is a top view of yet another embodiment of a pipe system.

FIG. 16 is a top, half-sectional side view of the embodiment of FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is a bottom, half-sectional side view of another embodiment of apipe system at an initial stage of contact between a pipe and a retainerin a coupling.

FIG. 18 is a bottom, half-sectional side view of the embodiment of thepipe system of FIG. 17 at an intermediate stage of contact between thepipe, retainer and coupling.

FIGS. 19-22 are top, half-sectional side views of alternate embodimentsof pipe systems.

FIG. 23 is a top isometric view of an alternate embodiment of aretainer.

FIG. 24 is a partially-sectioned, axial end view of another alternateembodiment of an assembly of a retainer in a tubular member.

FIG. 25 is an enlarged image of a portion of the assembly of FIG. 24.

FIGS. 26 and 27 are partially-sectioned, axial end views of anotherembodiment of an assembly of a retainer in a tubular member shown inboth engaged and unengaged positions, respectively.

FIG. 28 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a machine forconnecting or disconnecting a pipe assembly, shown at an initial stageof engagement.

FIG. 29 is an axial end view of the machine and pipe assembly of FIG.28, shown at an intermediate stage of engagement.

FIGS. 30A and 30B are isometric views of an alternate embodiment of apipe assembly, shown unassembled and assembled, respectively.

The use of the same reference symbols in different drawings indicatessimilar or identical items.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of a system, method, assembly and apparatus for a conduitsqueeze retainer are disclosed. For example, FIGS. 1-4 depict oneversion of an assembly that includes a tubular body 21 having an axis23, a bore 25 that is axial and a retainer groove 27 formed in the bore25 of the tubular body 21. In a generic sense, the tubular body 21 cancomprise a female receptacle on a component. For example, the componentcan be one of a pipe, a belled pipe, coupling, elbow, tee, sled tee,fitting, flange, cap, hose, flexible hose or electrical housing. In theillustrated embodiment, the tubular body 21 comprises a coupling, suchas the tee coupling shown in FIGS. 1-4. In other embodiments, thetubular body 21 can comprise a pipe (not shown) that has a spigot at oneaxial end and bell at an opposite axial end to receive the spigot ofanother pipe.

A retainer 31 (FIGS. 1-5) can be mounted in the retainer groove 27. Inone version, the retainer 31 can comprise a spring clamp. In anotherversion, the retainer 31 can include a radial sectional shape that isgenerally rectangular and has a chamfer 33 to facilitate insertion of apipe 41 (FIG. 6) through the retainer 31. Embodiments of the retainer 31can include a radial inner surface 35 having the chamfer 33 on an innerradial corner thereof configured to face in an axial direction of thepipe 41. Thus, retainer 31 can be uni-directional since there can beonly one chamfer 33 facing in an axial direction. In other versions, theretainer 31 can be bi-directional. As shown in FIG. 5, the retainer 31can comprise a split ring with circumferentially overlapping ends 37,39.

In some versions, an entirety of the retainer 31 can be configured to beboth axially movable (compare FIGS. 1 and 3) and radially movable(compare FIGS. 6 and 7) relative to the retainer groove 27 duringformation of a pipe assembly with a pipe 41 in the bore 25. In oneexample, the retainer 31 can comprise a clamp having a relaxed state(FIGS. 1, 3 and 6) at a first diameter, and a radially expanded state(FIGS. 7 and 8) with a second diameter that is greater than the firstdiameter.

Embodiments of the retainer 31 can be configured to comprise a sequenceof configurations. For example, retainer 31 can comprise a nominalconfiguration (FIGS. 1 and 2) having a nominal diameter relative to theaxis 23 prior to formation of the pipe assembly with the pipe 41. Inaddition, the retainer 31 can have an expanded configuration (FIGS. 7and 8) having an expanded diameter relative to the axis 23 duringformation of the pipe assembly.

After formation of the pipe assembly, retainer 31 can have an engagedconfiguration (FIGS. 9 and 10) having an engaged diameter. In oneexample, the nominal diameter<the engaged diameter<the expandeddiameter. Alternatively, the retainer 31 can be configured to compriseanother nominal configuration having the nominal diameter afterformation of the pipe assembly, such that it does have a separateengaged configuration at an engaged diameter. In another example, and inresponse to tension being applied to the pipe assembly, the retainer 31can be configured to engage in the retainer groove 27 at a shallowestradial depth 28 (see, e.g., FIGS. 3, 4, 11 and 12) thereof. Such aconfiguration can mitigate spline roll.

In one example, the retainer 31 automatically engages the pipe 41 andself-assembles and locks it without directly manually engaging theretainer 31 when the pipe 41 is inserted into the bore 25 of the tubularbody 21. The pipe 41 can be inserted into the tubular body 21 eithermanually or with machine assistance. In addition, the pipe assembly canbe reversible, such that manual actuation of the retainer 31 can enablerelease of the pipe 41 from the tubular body 21. Moreover, the pipeassembly can be repeatably reversible such that the tubular body 21,retainer 31 and pipe 41 can repeatably form and un-form the pipeassembly.

Embodiments of the pipe 41 can include an axial end 43 having a chamfer45 (FIGS. 6 and 7) and a pipe retainer groove 47. The chamfer 45 can beon an exterior thereof to facilitate insertion through the retainer 31.In one version (FIG. 13), only the pipe 41 is chamfered and the retainer31 is not chamfered. In another version (FIG. 14), only the retainer 31is chamfered and the pipe 41 is not chamfered. However, in some of theillustrated embodiments both the retainer 31 and the pipe 41 arechamfered.

In some versions, the retainer 31 consists of only one retainer. Theonly one retainer can be the only retainer that is configured to retainthe pipe 41 to the tubular body 21. In other versions, the retainer 31can comprise a plurality of retainers, each mounted in a respectiveretainer groove 27 in the tubular body.

Embodiments of the retainer 31 can include radial extensions 32 relativeto the axis 23. The radially extensions 32 can be configured to bemanipulated (e.g., manually or with a tool) to change a dimension of theretainer 31. The radial extensions 32 can extend to an exterior of thepipe assembly. For example, the radial extensions 32 can extend throughan aperture 30 in a wall of the tubular body 21. In this sense, theassembly can include visual indicia (e.g., the radial extensions 32) toindicate (a) if the retainer 31 has not engaged the pipe 41 (FIGS. 1, 2and 6), (b) if the retainer 31 is not seated in the pipe retainer groove47 (FIGS. 7 and 8), and/or (c) if the tubular body 21 and the pipe 41are in tension (FIGS. 11 and 12). In one example, the radial extensions32 can only slidingly engage each other and do not lock together.

Some versions of the aperture 30 comprise recesses 34. In an example,the radial extensions 32 can be configured to have an unrestrainedposition (FIGS. 1, 2, 8 and 10) in the aperture 30 where the radialextensions are not in the recesses 34. In other versions, the radialextensions 32 can be configured to have a restrained position (FIGS. 3,4, 11 and 12) in the recesses 34. The radial extensions 32 and theretainer 31 can be axially movable between the unrestrained andrestrained positions. In an embodiment, in the unrestrained position theradial extensions 32 are circumferentially movable (e.g., compare FIGS.6-8) relative to each other, and the retainer is radially movable. Inanother embodiment, in the restrained position the radial extensions 32are not circumferentially movable relative to each other, and theretainer 31 is not radially movable. The radial extensions 32 can extendout of the bore 25 and aperture 30 of the tubular body 21, such that oneor more portions of the retainer 31 is exposed from an exterior of thetubular body 21. The radial extensions 32 can extend radially beyond anexterior surface of the tubular body 21.

Embodiments can include all surfaces of the retainer 31 to be smooth andnot textured or grooved, such as with teeth. In another embodiment, allsurfaces of the retainer groove 27 and the pipe retainer groove 47 ofthe pipe 41 are smooth and are not textured, such as with teeth. Asshown in FIGS. 9 and 11, the pipe retainer groove 47 can be configuredto receive a portion of the retainer 31. In the illustrated version, thepipe retainer groove 47 is on an exterior of the pipe 41, and theretainer groove 27 has an axial length 50 (FIG. 9) that is greater thanan axial length 48 of the pipe retainer groove 47. In examples, the piperetainer groove axial length 48 is less than the retainer groove axiallength 50 by at least about 10% and not greater than about 50%. Inanother example, the axial length 48 of the pipe retainer groove 47 isgreater than the axial length 50 of the retainer groove 27. In stillanother version (FIGS. 15 and 16), the retainer groove 27 has a retainergroove axial length 52, and the retainer 31 has a retainer axial length54 that is substantially similar to (e.g., slightly less than) the axiallength 52 of the retainer groove 27.

Embodiments of the retainer groove 27 can include a plurality of radialdepths relative to the axis 23. In an example, the retainer groove 27can be located adjacent an axial end 22 (FIG. 6) of the tubular body 21.The retainer groove 27 can include a deepest radial depth 26 locatedfarthest from the axial end 22, a shallowest radial depth 28 locatedaxially between the axial end 22 and the deepest radial depth 26. Inaddition, the deepest radial depth 26 can be greater than the shallowestradial depth 28.

In FIG. 7, a version of the retainer 31 can have a radial thickness T₁that is greater than the radial thickness T₂ of the shallowest radialdepth 28 of the retainer groove 27. In addition, the retainer 31 canhave an expanded state (see, also, FIG. 8) with an inner radius that islarger than the outer radius of the pipe. In addition, the radialthickness T₁ of the retainer 31 can be smaller than, or smaller than orequal to, the radial thickness T₃ of the deepest radial depth 26 of theretainer groove 27.

In other embodiments, the tubular body 21 can include a stop 20 (FIGS. 9and 11) protruding radially inward from the bore 25. In an example, thebore 25 can be smooth and comprise no texture or teeth. In anotherversion, the bore 25 can consist of a single diameter, other than theretainer groove 27 and a seal groove 38 having a seal 40 configured toseal (compare FIGS. 6-14) the tubular body 21 to the pipe 41, such asfor liquid flow applications. In other examples, the assembly does notcomprise a hydraulic seal.

Embodiments of a method of forming a pipe assembly also are disclosed.For example, the method can include providing a tubular body 21 with anaxis 23, a bore 25 that is axial, and a retainer groove 27 formed in thebore 25. The method can include mounting a retainer 31 at a first radialdepth (see, e.g., FIGS. 6 and 7) in the retainer groove 27, andinserting a pipe 41 into the bore 25 of the tubular body 21 and throughthe retainer 31 (compare FIGS. 6 and 7) until a pipe retainer groove 47axially aligns (FIG. 9) with the retainer groove 27 in the tubular body21, such that the retainer 31 seats in the pipe retainer groove 47. Themethod can further comprise axially removing at least a portion of thepipe 41 (FIG. 11) from the tubular body 21 such that the retainer 31moves axially to a second radial depth of the retainer groove 27 (thatcan be radially shallower than the first radial depth) to form the pipeassembly.

Another embodiment of a method of forming a pipe assembly can includeinserting the pipe 41 into the bore 25 of the tubular body 21 andthrough the retainer 31 (compare FIGS. 6 and 7) such that the retainer31 is automatically radially expanded by the pipe 41 without manualintervention. The method can include further inserting the pipe 41 intothe bore 25 until the pipe retainer groove 47 axially aligns with theretainer groove 27 in the tubular body 21, such that the retainer 31seats in the pipe retainer groove 47 and forms the pipe assembly, suchas in the examples of FIGS. 9-12.

In versions for some applications, the retainer groove 27, retainer 31and the pipe retainer groove 47 in the pipe 41 are parallel to eachother and perpendicular to the axis 23. In addition, the retainer 31 cancomprise a split ring, and outer axial-facing surfaces 56 (FIG. 16) ofboth ends of the retainer 31 can be parallel to each other.

As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, an embodiment of a retainer 131 can bemounted in the retainer groove 127 in an interior of the tubular body121. Both the retainer 131 and retainer groove 127 can include slopedsurfaces that are not parallel to the axis of tubular body 121.Embodiments of the retainer 131 can include a radial tapered outersurface 135 configured to slide along the tapered inner axial length ofretainer groove 127. The retainer 131 can comprise a split ring asdescribed herein for other embodiments. In some versions, an entirety ofthe retainer 131 can be configured to be both axially movable andradially movable relative to the retainer groove 127 during formation ofa pipe assembly with a pipe 141 and tubular body 121. Thus, rather thanhaving discrete depths as described for other embodiments, the retainergroove 127 has an angled surface that is conical in relation to the pipeaxis.

FIGS. 19-22 include top, half-sectional side views of alternateembodiments of pipe systems at initial stages of contact. For someexamples, FIG. 19 depicts a pipe 241 with an elongated chamfer 245 a (insome versions) adjacent its axial spigot end. Pipe 241 can be insertedinto a tubular member 221 having retainer groove 227 with both a shallowradial depth 228 and a deep radial depth 226. Retainer groove 227 canreceive a retainer 231 at either radial depth 226, 228. Retainer 231 canhave no axial chamfer (FIG. 19), or it can include an axial chamfer 233(FIG. 20) to facilitate entry of pipe 241, such as with a shorterchamfer 245 b (FIG. 20). Retainer 231 can releasably secure pipe 241 intubular member 221.

As shown in FIG. 20, the retainer 231 can have a relaxed, default state(i.e., an at-rest, unactuated configuration) wherein, relative to theaxis 223, an inner radial dimension R_(I) (e.g., inner radius) of theretainer 231 can be less than a radial dimension R_(P) (e.g., outerradius) of the pipe 241. In addition, in the relaxed, default state ofthe retainer 231, the inner radial dimension R_(I) (e.g., inner radius)of the retainer 231 can be less than or equal to a radial dimensionR_(PG) (e.g., outer radius of the pipe groove 247) of the pipe 241. Inanother version, the retainer 231 can have the relaxed, default statewherein an outer radius R_(O) of the retainer 231, relative to the axis223, can be less than an inner radius R_(G) of the shallowest radialdepth 228 of the retainer groove 227. In addition, the outer radiusR_(O) of the retainer 231 can be greater than an inner radius R_(B) of abore 232 of the tubular body 221.

In other examples, FIG. 21 depicts a pipe 341 with an elongated chamfer345 a adjacent its axial spigot end. Pipe 341 can be inserted into atubular member 321 having retainer groove 327 with a shallow radialdepth 328, a deep radial depth 326 and an incline, diagonal or slope 329(relative to the axis) to facilitate motion therebetween. Retainergroove 327 can receive and retain a retainer 331 at either radial depth326, 328. Retainer 331 can have no axial chamfer (FIG. 21), or it caninclude an axial chamfer 333 (FIG. 22) to facilitate entry of pipe 341,such as with a shorter chamfer 345 b (FIG. 22). Retainer 331 canreleasably secure pipe 341 in tubular member 321.

FIG. 23 depicts an alternate embodiment of a retainer 431. Like retainer31 described herein, retainer 431 can include radial extensions 432 thatcan manipulate a diameter of the retainer 431. In some examples,retainer 431 can include a chamfer 433 and one or more centralizers 436.As shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, the centralizers 436 can help keep theretainer 431 centralized in the retainer groove 427 of a tubular member421. Note that retainer 431 can include alternate versions of radialextensions 442, such as the dust covers or debris shields disclosed inU.S. Prov. App. No. 62/560,045, filed Sep. 18, 2017, which again isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIGS. 26 and 27 illustrate axial end views of another embodiment of anassembly of a retainer 531 in a tubular member 521. FIGS. 26 and 27depict engaged and unengaged positions, respectively, for retainer 531relative to retainer groove 527 in tubular member 521. In FIG. 26, apipe (not shown) in tubular member 521 could have a pipe retainer grooveengaged by retainer 531 to restrain the pipe in the tubular member 521.In FIG. 27, the pipe retainer groove of the pipe (not shown) can bereleased by retainer 531 to enable the pipe to be removed from thetubular member 521. At least one of the radial extensions 542 onretainer 531 can be rotated (counter-clockwise, in the version shown) tomove retainer 531 from the engaged position to the unengaged position.

FIG. 28 depicts one version of an embodiment of a machine 601 forconnecting or disconnecting a pipe assembly. In FIG. 28, the machine 601is shown at an initial stage of engagement with the tubular member 521having retainers 531 (e.g., two shown) for engaging pipes 541 a, 541 b.The machine 601 can include a frame or base 603 to which is connected anactuator 605. As shown in FIG. 29, the actuator 605 can include a piston607 that can engage and push a portion of retainer 531 (such as at leastone radial extension 542). Piston 607 can move retainer 531 from theengaged position to the unengaged position, which have been describedherein. In addition, actuator 605 can include a guide 609 (e.g., aD-ring) that follows an outer recess 544 in tubular member 521 to helpfacilitate alignment therebetween. Piston 607 also can release theretainer 531 so that the retainer 531 returns to its natural or defaultengaged position. Thus, machine 601 can facilitate the assembly ordisassembly of a string of pipes and tubular members that connect thepipes.

FIGS. 30A and 30B illustrate isometric views of an alternate embodimentof a pipe system 701, shown unassembled and assembled, respectively.Pipe system 701 depicts the modularity of a very adaptable pipeassembly. Pipe system 701 can include one or more of any of thecomponents described herein, such as the retainers (e.g., retainer 31),to form releasable connections within the pipe assembly. In the versionillustrated, the pipe system 701 is shown with a tee 703, differenttypes of adapters 705, 707, 709, 711 and other accessories, such as anend cap 713. For example, adapter 705 can be a female by female cappedcoupling, adapter 707 can be a female restrained coupling to a femalegasketed coupling, adapter 709 can be a diameter reducer or enlarger,adapter 711 can be male by male adapter. The fittings or adapters can bemade to confirm to standardized connections. The pipe system 701 caninclude more, fewer of different components than those shown.

Pipe system 701 also can include one or more adaptive sites 715. Eachadaptive site 715 can have one or more purposes. For example, a firstpurpose for adaptive site 715 is provided during molding andmanufacturing of the component on which the adaptive site 715. Duringfabrication, the mold that forms the adaptive site 715 can bereconfigured with other mold inserts to change the purpose of adaptivesite 715. Versions of adaptive site 715 can include a threaded hole thatcan be threadingly connected to another component, a conical holeprovided for a spin weld to another component, etc. In some embodiments,the adaptability of adaptive site 715 can be limited to the profile size(e.g., axially, radially, etc.) of the adaptive site.

Embodiments of a second purpose for the adaptive sites 715 can includereconfiguration in the field, such as during assembly or installation ofthe pipe system 701. For example, when the pipe system 701 is in theprocess of being deployed for operational use, it can be desirable toreconfigure the adaptive site 715 for another component, rather thanletting it remain sealed from use or fluid communication. In someversions, the adaptive site 715 can be tapped in the field to provide athreaded connection to another component. In another version, theadaptive site 715 can be reamed out to form a conical aperture in whichanother component can be spin welded.

Other versions can include one or more of the following embodiments:

Embodiment 1

An assembly, comprising:

a tubular body having an axis, a bore that is axial and a retainergroove formed in the bore of the tubular body; and

a retainer mounted in the retainer groove, and an entirety of theretainer is configured to be both axially movable and radially movablerelative to the retainer groove during formation of a pipe assembly witha pipe in the bore.

Embodiment 2

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the tubular bodycomprises a female receptacle on a component.

Embodiment 3

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the componentcomprises one of a pipe, a belled pipe, coupling, elbow, tee, sled tee,fitting, flange, cap, hose, flexible hose and electrical housing.

Embodiment 4

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainerautomatically engages the pipe without manual intervention when the pipeis inserted into the bore of the tubular body.

Embodiment 5

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the pipe assembly isreversible such that actuation of the retainer releases the pipe fromthe tubular body.

Embodiment 6

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the pipe assembly isrepeatably reversible such that the tubular body, retainer and pipe canrepeatably form and un-form the pipe assembly.

Embodiment 7

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainer comprisesa spring clamp.

Embodiment 8

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainer comprisesa radial sectional shape that is rectangular and is chamfered tofacilitate insertion of the pipe through the retainer.

Embodiment 9

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainer comprisesa radial inner surface having a chamfer on a corner thereof configuredto face in an axial direction of the pipe.

Embodiment 10

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainer comprisesa split ring with circumferentially overlapping ends.

Embodiment 11

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the pipe has an axialend that is chamfered on an exterior thereof to facilitate insertionthrough the retainer.

Embodiment 12

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein only the retainer ischamfered and the pipe is not chamfered.

Embodiment 13

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein only the pipe ischamfered and the retainer is not chamfered.

Embodiment 14

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein both the retainer andthe pipe are chamfered.

Embodiment 15

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainer comprisesa clamp having a relaxed state with a first diameter, and a radiallyexpanded state with a second diameter that is greater than the firstdiameter.

Embodiment 16

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the assembly comprisesvisual indicia to indicate if the tubular body and the pipe are intension.

Embodiment 17

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein, in response totension being applied to the pipe assembly, the retainer is configuredto engage in the retainer groove at a shallowest radial depth thereof.

Embodiment 18

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainer isconfigured to:

radially expand when the pipe is being inserted into the tubular body;and

move axially into a shallower portion of the retainer groove when thepipe assembly is put in tension.

Embodiment 19

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainer isconfigured to comprise:

a nominal configuration having a nominal diameter relative to the axisprior to formation of the pipe assembly with the pipe;

an expanded configuration having an expanded diameter relative to theaxis during formation of the pipe assembly, and the expanded diameter isgreater than the nominal diameter; and

an engaged configuration having an engaged diameter after formation ofthe pipe assembly, wherein the nominal diameter<the engaged diameter<theexpanded diameter.

Embodiment 20

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainer isconfigured to comprise:

a nominal configuration having a nominal diameter relative to the axisprior to formation of the pipe assembly with the pipe;

an expanded configuration having an expanded diameter relative to theaxis during formation of the pipe assembly, and the expanded diameter isgreater than the nominal diameter; and

another nominal configuration having the nominal diameter afterformation of the pipe assembly.

Embodiment 21

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainer consistsof only one retainer. The only one retainer can be the only retainerthat is configured to retain the pipe to the tubular body.

Embodiment 22

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainer comprisesa plurality of retainers, each mounted in a respective retainer groovein the tubular body.

Embodiment 23

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainer comprisesradial extensions relative to the axis, and the radially extensions areconfigured to be manipulated to change a dimension of the retainer.

Embodiment 24

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the radial extensionsare configured to only slidingly engage each other and do not locktogether.

Embodiment 25

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the radial extensionsextend through an aperture in a wall of the tubular body.

Embodiment 26

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the aperture comprisesrecesses, the radial extensions are configured to have an unrestrainedposition in the aperture, and the radial extensions are configured tohave a restrained position in the recesses.

Embodiment 27

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the radial extensionsand the retainer are axially movable between the unrestrained andrestrained positions.

Embodiment 28

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein, in the unrestrainedposition the radial extensions are circumferentially movable and theretainer is radially movable, and in the restrained position the radialextensions are not circumferentially movable and the retainer is notradially movable.

Embodiment 29

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the radial extensionsextend out of the bore of the tubular body such that a portion of theretainer is exposed from an exterior of the tubular body.

Embodiment 30

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the radial extensionsextend radially beyond an exterior surface of the tubular body.

Embodiment 31

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein all surfaces of theretainer are smooth and are not grooved with teeth.

Embodiment 32

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein all surfaces of theretainer groove and a pipe retainer groove of the pipe are smooth andare not grooved with teeth.

Embodiment 33

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainer groovecomprises a plurality of radial depths relative to the axis.

Embodiment 34

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainer groove islocated adjacent an axial end of the tubular body, the retainer groovecomprises a deepest radial depth located farthest from the axial end, ashallowest radial depth located axially between the axial end and thedeepest radial depth, and the deepest radial depth is greater than theshallowest radial depth.

Embodiment 35

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the tubular bodyfurther comprises a stop protruding radially inward from the bore.

Embodiment 36

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the bore consists of asingle diameter.

Embodiment 37

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the bore is smooth andcomprises no teeth.

Embodiment 38

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the tubular bodyfurther comprises a seal groove with a seal configured to seal thetubular body to the pipe in the pipe assembly.

Embodiment 39

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the assembly does notcomprise a hydraulic seal.

Embodiment 40

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the pipe comprises apipe retainer groove configured to receive the retainer.

Embodiment 41

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the pipe has a piperetainer groove on an exterior thereof for the retainer, and theretainer groove has an axial length that is greater than an axial lengthof the pipe retainer groove.

Embodiment 42

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the pipe retainergroove axial length is less than the retainer groove axial length by atleast about 10% and not greater than about 50%.

Embodiment 43

An assembly, comprising:

a tubular body having an axis, an axial end, a bore that is axial and aretainer groove formed in the bore of the tubular body; and

a retainer mounted in the retainer groove, the retainer comprises aradial section shape relative to the axis that is rectangular, theretainer comprises a radial inner surface having a corner with a chamferfacing the axial end of the tubular body, and the retainer is configuredto be radially movable relative to the retainer groove during formationof a pipe assembly with a pipe in the bore.

Embodiment 44

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainer groovehas a retainer groove axial length, and the retainer has a retaineraxial length that is substantially similar to the retainer groove axiallength.

Embodiment 45

A pipe assembly, comprising:

a tubular body having an axis, an axial end, a bore that is axial, aretainer groove formed in the bore of the tubular body, and the retainergroove comprises a plurality of radial depths relative to the axis;

a retainer mounted in the retainer groove, and the retainer is radiallymovable relative to the retainer groove; and

a pipe mounted in the bore of the tubular body and retained by theretainer.

Embodiment 46

A pipe assembly, comprising:

a tubular body having an axis, an axial end, a bore that is axial, and aretainer groove formed in the bore of the tubular body;

a pipe mounted in the bore of the tubular body and having a piperetainer groove on an exterior thereof, and the retainer groove of thetubular body has an axial length that is greater than an axial length ofthe pipe retainer groove; and

a retainer mounted in the retainer groove and the pipe retainer groovefor retaining the pipe in the tubular body.

Embodiment 47

A method of forming a pipe assembly, the method comprising:

(a) providing a tubular body with an axis, a bore that is axial, and aretainer groove formed in the bore;

(b) mounting a retainer at a first radial depth in the retainer groove;

(c) inserting a pipe into the bore of the tubular body and through theretainer until a pipe retainer groove axially aligns with the retainergroove in the tubular body, such that the retainer seats in the piperetainer groove; and then

(d) axially removing at least a portion of the pipe from the tubularbody such that the retainer moves axially to a second radial depth ofthe retainer groove that is radially shallower than the first radialdepth to form the pipe assembly.

Embodiment 48

A method of forming a pipe assembly, the method comprising:

(a) providing a tubular body with an axis, a bore that is axial, and aretainer groove formed in the bore;

(b) mounting a retainer at a first radial depth in the retainer groove;

(c) inserting a pipe into the bore of the tubular body and through theretainer such that the retainer is automatically radially expanded bythe pipe without manual intervention; and then

(d) further inserting the pipe into the bore until a pipe retainergroove axially aligns with the retainer groove in the tubular body, suchthat the retainer seats in the pipe retainer groove and forms the pipeassembly.

Embodiment 49

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainer groove,retainer and a pipe retainer groove in the pipe are parallel to eachother and perpendicular to the axis.

Embodiment 50

The assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainer comprisesa split ring, and outer axial-facing surfaces of both ends of theretainer are co-planar.

Embodiment 51

A pipe system, comprising:

a tubular body having an axis, a bore that is axial and a retainergroove formed in the bore of the tubular body, wherein the retainergroove has a shallow radius and a deep radius that is greater than theshallow radius;

a retainer configured to be mounted in the retainer groove, wherein theretainer comprises a radial thickness T1 that is greater than a radialthickness T2 of the shallow radius of the retainer groove; and

the radial thickness T1 of the retainer is less than or equal to aradial thickness T3 of the deep radius of the retainer groove.

Embodiment 52

The pipe system of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainer has arelaxed, default state wherein, relative to the axis, an inner radius RIof the retainer is less than an outer radius RP of a pipe for thetubular body.

Embodiment 53

The pipe system of any of these embodiments, wherein the inner radius RIof the retainer is less than or equal to an outer radius RPG of a piperetainer groove in an exterior of the pipe.

Embodiment 54

The pipe system of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainer has arelaxed, default state wherein, relative to the axis, an outer radius ROof the retainer is less than an inner radius RG of the shallow radius ofthe retainer groove, and the outer radius RO of the retainer is greaterthan an inner radius RB of the bore of the tubular body.

Embodiment 55

The pipe system of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainer isconfigured to be fully radially expanded into and seat completely withinthe deep radius of the retainer groove in the tubular body.

Embodiment 56

The pipe system of any of these embodiments, wherein a radial size ofthe retainer is configured to radially expand relative to the axis whena pipe is axially inserted through the retainer in the tubular body.

Embodiment 57

The pipe system of any of these embodiments, wherein a chamfer on theretainer or on the pipe is configured to translate axial motion of thepipe through the retainer into a radial motion of the retainer.

Embodiment 58

The pipe system of any of these embodiments, wherein the tubular body isone of a coupling or an integrated bell on an axial end of a pipe.

Embodiment 59

A pipe system, comprising:

a tubular body having an axis, a bore that is axial and a retainergroove formed in the bore of the tubular body; and

a retainer configured to be mounted in the retainer groove, and anentirety of the retainer is configured to be both axially movable andradially movable relative to the retainer groove during formation of apipe assembly with a pipe in the bore.

Embodiment 60

The pipe system of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainer isconfigured to automatically engage the pipe without manual interventionwith the retainer when the pipe is inserted into the bore of the tubularbody.

Embodiment 61

The pipe system of any of these embodiments, wherein the pipe assemblyis configured to be reversible such that actuation of the retainerreleases the pipe from the tubular body.

Embodiment 62

The pipe system of any of these embodiments, wherein the pipe assemblyis configured to be repeatably reversible such that the tubular body,retainer and pipe can repeatably form and un-form the pipe assembly.

Embodiment 63

The pipe system of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainercomprises a radial inner surface having a chamfer on a corner thereofconfigured to face in an axial direction of the pipe.

Embodiment 64

The pipe system of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainercomprises a split ring with circumferentially overlapping ends.

Embodiment 65

The pipe system of any of these embodiments 4, wherein the split ring isconfigured to comprise a relaxed state with a first diameter, and aradially expanded state with a second diameter that is greater than thefirst diameter.

Embodiment 66

The pipe system of any of these embodiments, wherein tubular bodycomprises visual indicia configured to indicate if the tubular body andthe pipe are in tension.

Embodiment 67

The pipe system of any of these embodiments, wherein, in response totension being applied to the pipe assembly, the retainer is configuredto engage in the retainer groove at a shallowest radial depth thereof.

Embodiment 68

The pipe system of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainer isconfigured to:

radially expand when the pipe is inserted into the tubular body; and

move axially into a shallower portion of the retainer groove when thepipe assembly is put in tension.

Embodiment 69

The pipe system of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainer isconfigured to comprise:

a nominal configuration having a nominal diameter relative to the axisprior to formation of the pipe assembly with the pipe;

an expanded configuration having an expanded diameter relative to theaxis during formation of the pipe assembly, and the expanded diameter isgreater than the nominal diameter; and

an engaged configuration having an engaged diameter after formation ofthe pipe assembly, wherein the nominal diameter<the engaged diameter<theexpanded diameter.

Embodiment 70

The pipe system of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainerconsists of only one retainer, and the only one retainer is the onlyretainer that is configured to retain the pipe to the tubular body.

Embodiment 71

The pipe system of any of these embodiments, wherein the retainercomprises radial extensions relative to the axis, and the radiallyextensions are configured to be manipulated to change a dimension of theretainer.

Embodiment 72

The pipe system of any of these embodiments, wherein the radialextensions are configured to only slidingly engage each other and do notlock together, and the radial extensions are configured to extendthrough an aperture in a wall of the tubular body; and

the aperture comprises recesses, the radial extensions are configured tohave an unrestrained position in the aperture, the radial extensions areconfigured to have a restrained position in the recesses, and the radialextensions and the retainer are configured to be axially movable betweenthe unrestrained and restrained positions.

Embodiment 73

The pipe system of any of these embodiments, wherein, in theunrestrained position the radial extensions are configured to becircumferentially movable and the retainer is radially movable, and inthe restrained position the radial extensions are configured to be notcircumferentially movable and the retainer is not radially movable.

Embodiment 74

A pipe system, comprising:

a tubular body having an axis, an axial end, a bore that is axial, aretainer groove formed in the bore of the tubular body, and the retainergroove comprises a plurality of radial depths relative to the axis;

a retainer configured to be mounted in the retainer groove, and theretainer is configured to be radially movable relative to the retainergroove; and

a pipe is configured to be mounted in the bore of the tubular body andretained by the retainer.

Embodiment 75

A pipe system, comprising:

a tubular body having an axis, an axial end, a bore that is axial, and aretainer groove formed in the bore of the tubular body;

a pipe configured to be mounted in the bore of the tubular body andhaving a pipe retainer groove on an exterior thereof, and the retainergroove of the tubular body has an axial length that is greater than anaxial length of the pipe retainer groove; and

a retainer configured to be mounted in the retainer groove and the piperetainer groove for retaining the pipe in the tubular body.

Embodiment 76

A retainer for a tubular body and a pipe in a pipe assembly, theretainer comprising:

a split ring having an axis, an outer diameter, a bore that is axialhaving an inner diameter, and first and second axial ends, a chamfer onone of the first and second axial ends adjacent the inner diameter, thesplit ring also comprises circumferentially overlapping ends that areaxially spaced apart from each in an axial direction, and the split ringcomprises radial extensions relative to the axis, the radiallyextensions are configured to be manipulated to change a radial size ofthe split ring, the radial extensions are configured to only slidinglyengage each other and do not lock together; wherein

the split ring has a relaxed, default state wherein, relative to theaxis, a default radius R1 of the split ring is less than an expandedradius R2 of the split ring when it is expanded in an actuated state;

the split ring is configured to be mounted in the tubular body to securethe pipe in the tubular body to form the pipe assembly; and

the radial size of the split ring is configured to radially expandrelative to the axis without manual intervention when the pipe isaxially inserted through the split ring in the tubular body, such thatthe chamfer on the split ring is configured to translate axial motion ofthe pipe through the split ring into a radial motion of the split ring.

Embodiment 77

The retainer of any of these embodiments, wherein the split ring isconfigured to automatically engage the pipe without manual interventionwith the split ring when the pipe is inserted into the bore of thetubular body.

Embodiment 78

The retainer of any of these embodiments, wherein the split ring isconfigured to be reversible such that actuation of the split ringreleases the pipe from the tubular body.

Embodiment 79

The retainer of any of these embodiments, wherein the split ring isconfigured to be repeatably reversible such that the split ring, tubularbody and pipe can repeatably form and un-form the pipe assembly.

Embodiment 80

The retainer of any of these embodiments, wherein the split ring isconfigured to comprise:

a nominal configuration having a nominal diameter relative to the axisprior to formation of the pipe assembly with the pipe and tubular body;

an expanded configuration having an expanded diameter relative to theaxis during formation of the pipe assembly, and the expanded diameter isgreater than the nominal diameter; and

an engaged configuration having an engaged diameter after formation ofthe pipe assembly, wherein the nominal diameter<the engaged diameter<theexpanded diameter.

Embodiment 81

The retainer of any of these embodiments, wherein the split ring isconfigured to comprise:

a nominal configuration having a nominal diameter relative to the axisprior to formation of the pipe assembly with the pipe and tubular body;

an expanded configuration having an expanded diameter relative to theaxis during formation of the pipe assembly, and the expanded diameter isgreater than the nominal diameter; and

another nominal configuration having the nominal diameter afterformation of the pipe assembly.

Embodiment 82

The retainer of any of these embodiments, wherein the split ringcomprises a spring clamp.

Embodiment 83

The retainer of any of these embodiments, wherein an entirety of thesplit ring is configured to be both axially movable and radially movablerelative to a retainer groove in the tubular body during formation ofthe pipe assembly with the pipe and tubular body.

Embodiment 84

The retainer of any of these embodiments, wherein both of the first andsecond axial ends of the split ring are chamfered adjacent the innerdiameter.

Embodiment 85

The retainer of any of these embodiments, wherein all surfaces of thesplit ring are smooth and are not grooved with teeth.

Embodiment 86

The retainer of any of these embodiments, wherein the split ringcomprises a radial sectional shape relative to the axis that isrectangular, and the chamfer is located on one corner of the rectangularshape.

Embodiment 87

The retainer of any of these embodiments, wherein the split ringcomprises surfaces that are orthogonal to each other and to the axis.

Embodiment 88

A retainer for a tubular body and a pipe in a pipe assembly, theretainer comprising:

a split ring having an axis, an outer diameter, a bore that is axialhaving an inner diameter, and first and second axial ends, a chamfer onone of the first and second axial ends adjacent the inner diameter, thesplit ring also comprises circumferentially overlapping ends that areaxially spaced apart from each in an axial direction, and the split ringcomprises radial extensions relative to the axis, the radiallyextensions are configured to be manipulated to change a radial size ofthe split ring, the radial extensions are configured to only slidinglyengage each other and do not lock together; wherein

the split ring has a relaxed, default state wherein, relative to theaxis, a default radius R1 of the split ring is less than an expandedradius R2 of the split ring when it is expanded in an actuated state;

the split ring is configured to be mounted in the tubular body to securethe pipe in the tubular body to form the pipe assembly;

the radial size of the split ring is configured to radially expandrelative to the axis without manual intervention when the pipe isaxially inserted through the split ring in the tubular body, such thatthe chamfer on the split ring is configured to translate axial motion ofthe pipe through the split ring into a radial motion of the split ring,and the split ring is configured to automatically engage the pipewithout manual intervention with the split ring when the pipe isinserted into the bore of the tubular body; and

the split ring is configured to be repeatably reversible such that thesplit ring, tubular body and pipe can repeatably form and un-form thepipe assembly.

Embodiment 89

The retainer of any of these embodiments, wherein the split ring isconfigured to comprise:

a nominal configuration having a nominal diameter relative to the axisprior to formation of the pipe assembly with the pipe and tubular body;

an expanded configuration having an expanded diameter relative to theaxis during formation of the pipe assembly, and the expanded diameter isgreater than the nominal diameter; and

an engaged configuration having an engaged diameter after formation ofthe pipe assembly, wherein the nominal diameter<the engaged diameter<theexpanded diameter.

Embodiment 90

The retainer of any of these embodiments, wherein the split ring isconfigured to comprise:

a nominal configuration having a nominal diameter relative to the axisprior to formation of the pipe assembly with the pipe and tubular body;

an expanded configuration having an expanded diameter relative to theaxis during formation of the pipe assembly, and the expanded diameter isgreater than the nominal diameter; and

another nominal configuration having the nominal diameter afterformation of the pipe assembly.

Embodiment 91

The retainer of any of these embodiments, wherein the split ringcomprises a spring clamp, and an entirety of the spring clamp isconfigured to be both axially movable and radially movable relative to aretainer groove in the tubular body during formation of the pipeassembly with the pipe and tubular body.

Embodiment 92

The retainer of any of these embodiments, wherein both of the first andsecond axial ends of the split ring are chamfered adjacent the innerdiameter.

Embodiment 93

The retainer of any of these embodiments, wherein all surfaces of thesplit ring are smooth and are not grooved with teeth.

Embodiment 94

The retainer of any of these embodiments, wherein the split ringcomprises a radial sectional shape relative to the axis that isrectangular, and the chamfer is located on one corner of the rectangularshape.

Embodiment 95

The retainer of any of these embodiments, wherein the split ringcomprises surfaces that are orthogonal to each other and to the axis.

This written description uses examples to disclose the embodiments,including the best mode, and also to enable those of ordinary skill inthe art to make and use the invention. The patentable scope is definedby the claims, and may include other examples that occur to thoseskilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within thescope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differfrom the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalentstructural elements with insubstantial differences from the literallanguages of the claims.

Note that not all of the activities described above in the generaldescription or the examples are required, that a portion of a specificactivity may not be required, and that one or more further activitiesmay be performed in addition to those described. Still further, theorder in which activities are listed are not necessarily the order inwhich they are performed.

In the foregoing specification, the concepts have been described withreference to specific embodiments. However, one of ordinary skill in theart appreciates that various modifications and changes can be madewithout departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in theclaims below. Accordingly, the specification and figures are to beregarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and allsuch modifications are intended to be included within the scope ofinvention.

It may be advantageous to set forth definitions of certain words andphrases used throughout this patent document. The term “communicate,” aswell as derivatives thereof, encompasses both direct and indirectcommunication. The terms “include” and “comprise,” as well asderivatives thereof, mean inclusion without limitation. The term “or” isinclusive, meaning and/or. The phrase “associated with,” as well asderivatives thereof, may mean to include, be included within,interconnect with, contain, be contained within, connect to or with,couple to or with, be communicable with, cooperate with, interleave,juxtapose, be proximate to, be bound to or with, have, have a propertyof, have a relationship to or with, or the like. The phrase “at leastone of,” when used with a list of items, means that differentcombinations of one or more of the listed items may be used, and onlyone item in the list may be needed. For example, “at least one of: A, B,and C” includes any of the following combinations: A, B, C, A and B, Aand C, B and C, and A and B and C.

Also, the use of “a” or “an” are employed to describe elements andcomponents described herein. This is done merely for convenience and togive a general sense of the scope of the invention. This descriptionshould be read to include one or at least one and the singular alsoincludes the plural unless it is obvious that it is meant otherwise.

The description in the present application should not be read asimplying that any particular element, step, or function is an essentialor critical element that must be included in the claim scope. The scopeof patented subject matter is defined only by the allowed claims.Moreover, none of the claims invokes 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) with respect toany of the appended claims or claim elements unless the exact words“means for” or “step for” are explicitly used in the particular claim,followed by a participle phrase identifying a function. Use of termssuch as (but not limited to) “mechanism,” “module,” “device,” “unit,”“component,” “element,” “member,” “apparatus,” “machine,” “system,”“processor,” or “controller” within a claim is understood and intendedto refer to structures known to those skilled in the relevant art, asfurther modified or enhanced by the features of the claims themselves,and is not intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. § 112(f).

Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have beendescribed above with regard to specific embodiments. However, thebenefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any feature(s) that maycause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become morepronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essentialfeature of any or all the claims.

After reading the specification, skilled artisans will appreciate thatcertain features are, for clarity, described herein in the context ofseparate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a singleembodiment. Conversely, various features that are, for brevity,described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be providedseparately or in any subcombination. Further, references to valuesstated in ranges include each and every value within that range.

What is claimed is:
 1. A retainer for a tubular body and a pipe in apipe assembly, the retainer comprising: a split ring having an axis, anouter diameter, a bore that is axial having an inner diameter, and firstand second axial ends, a chamfer on one of the first and second axialends adjacent the inner diameter, the split ring also comprisescircumferentially overlapping ends that are axially spaced apart fromeach in an axial direction, and the split ring comprises radialextensions relative to the axis, the radially extensions are configuredto be manipulated to change a radial size of the split ring, the radialextensions are configured to only slidingly engage each other and do notlock together; wherein the split ring has a relaxed, default statewherein, relative to the axis, a default radius R₁ of the split ring isless than an expanded radius R₂ of the split ring when it is expanded inan actuated state; the split ring is configured to be mounted in thetubular body to secure the pipe in the tubular body to form the pipeassembly; and the radial size of the split ring is configured toradially expand relative to the axis without manual intervention whenthe pipe is axially inserted through the split ring in the tubular body,such that the chamfer on the split ring is configured to translate axialmotion of the pipe through the split ring into a radial motion of thesplit ring.
 2. The retainer of claim 1, wherein the split ring isconfigured to automatically engage the pipe without manual interventionwith the split ring when the pipe is inserted into the bore of thetubular body.
 3. The retainer of claim 1, wherein the split ring isconfigured to be reversible such that actuation of the split ringreleases the pipe from the tubular body.
 4. The retainer of claim 1,wherein the split ring is configured to be repeatably reversible suchthat the split ring, tubular body and pipe can repeatably form andun-form the pipe assembly.
 5. The retainer of claim 1, wherein the splitring is configured to comprise: a nominal configuration having a nominaldiameter relative to the axis prior to formation of the pipe assemblywith the pipe and tubular body; an expanded configuration having anexpanded diameter relative to the axis during formation of the pipeassembly, and the expanded diameter is greater than the nominaldiameter; and an engaged configuration having an engaged diameter afterformation of the pipe assembly, wherein the nominal diameter<the engageddiameter<the expanded diameter.
 6. The retainer of claim 1, wherein thesplit ring is configured to comprise: a nominal configuration having anominal diameter relative to the axis prior to formation of the pipeassembly with the pipe and tubular body; an expanded configurationhaving an expanded diameter relative to the axis during formation of thepipe assembly, and the expanded diameter is greater than the nominaldiameter; and another nominal configuration having the nominal diameterafter formation of the pipe assembly.
 7. The retainer of claim 1,wherein the split ring comprises a spring clamp.
 8. The retainer ofclaim 1, wherein an entirety of the split ring is configured to be bothaxially movable and radially movable relative to a retainer groove inthe tubular body during formation of the pipe assembly with the pipe andtubular body.
 9. The retainer of claim 1, wherein both of the first andsecond axial ends of the split ring are chamfered adjacent the innerdiameter.
 10. The retainer of claim 1, wherein all surfaces of the splitring are smooth and are not grooved with teeth.
 11. The retainer ofclaim 1, wherein the split ring comprises a radial sectional shaperelative to the axis that is rectangular, and the chamfer is located onone corner of the rectangular shape.
 12. The retainer of claim 1,wherein the split ring comprises surfaces that are orthogonal to eachother and to the axis.
 13. A retainer for a tubular body and a pipe in apipe assembly, the retainer comprising: a split ring having an axis, anouter diameter, a bore that is axial having an inner diameter, and firstand second axial ends, a chamfer on one of the first and second axialends adjacent the inner diameter, the split ring also comprisescircumferentially overlapping ends that are axially spaced apart fromeach in an axial direction, and the split ring comprises radialextensions relative to the axis, the radially extensions are configuredto be manipulated to change a radial size of the split ring, the radialextensions are configured to only slidingly engage each other and do notlock together; wherein the split ring has a relaxed, default statewherein, relative to the axis, a default radius R₁ of the split ring isless than an expanded radius R₂ of the split ring when it is expanded inan actuated state; the split ring is configured to be mounted in thetubular body to secure the pipe in the tubular body to form the pipeassembly; the radial size of the split ring is configured to radiallyexpand relative to the axis without manual intervention when the pipe isaxially inserted through the split ring in the tubular body, such thatthe chamfer on the split ring is configured to translate axial motion ofthe pipe through the split ring into a radial motion of the split ring,and the split ring is configured to automatically engage the pipewithout manual intervention with the split ring when the pipe isinserted into the bore of the tubular body; and the split ring isconfigured to be repeatably reversible such that the split ring, tubularbody and pipe can repeatably form and un-form the pipe assembly.
 14. Theretainer of claim 13, wherein the split ring is configured to comprise:a nominal configuration having a nominal diameter relative to the axisprior to formation of the pipe assembly with the pipe and tubular body;an expanded configuration having an expanded diameter relative to theaxis during formation of the pipe assembly, and the expanded diameter isgreater than the nominal diameter; and an engaged configuration havingan engaged diameter after formation of the pipe assembly, wherein thenominal diameter<the engaged diameter<the expanded diameter.
 15. Theretainer of claim 13, wherein the split ring is configured to comprise:a nominal configuration having a nominal diameter relative to the axisprior to formation of the pipe assembly with the pipe and tubular body;an expanded configuration having an expanded diameter relative to theaxis during formation of the pipe assembly, and the expanded diameter isgreater than the nominal diameter; and another nominal configurationhaving the nominal diameter after formation of the pipe assembly. 16.The retainer of claim 13, wherein the split ring comprises a springclamp, and an entirety of the spring clamp is configured to be bothaxially movable and radially movable relative to a retainer groove inthe tubular body during formation of the pipe assembly with the pipe andtubular body.
 17. The retainer of claim 13, wherein both of the firstand second axial ends of the split ring are chamfered adjacent the innerdiameter.
 18. The retainer of claim 13, wherein all surfaces of thesplit ring are smooth and are not grooved with teeth.
 19. The retainerof claim 13, wherein the split ring comprises a radial sectional shaperelative to the axis that is rectangular, and the chamfer is located onone corner of the rectangular shape.
 20. The retainer of claim 13,wherein the split ring comprises surfaces that are orthogonal to eachother and to the axis.